Rose pleads not guilty to Boardwalk fire charges

The 20-year-old Lawrence man charged with setting the fire at the Boardwalk Apartments that killed three people today waived his right to a speedy trial.

Jason Rose briefly appeared this morning in Douglas County District Court, where his attorney entered a "not guilty" plea to all 12 charges stemming from the October fire.

A trial date was set for Sept. 18. It's expected to last two weeks.

The defense asked the judge to lower Rose's bond from $500,000 to $50,000, saying members of Rose's church have volunteered to take him in their homes, if he was released from jail.

The judge denied that request due to the serious nature of the charges.

At last month's preliminary hearing, Douglas County District Court Judge Jack Murphy found there was enough evidence to try Rose on three counts of first-degree murder, one count of aggravated arson and eight counts of aggravated battery.

I would take this young man into my home in a minute. He made an error in judgement that ended tragically, very tragically. I hope he has a chance to make up for his action, lead a healthy life and eventually give back to his community.